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Gene Frenette: Players who should be next on Jaguars' honor roll

The elite company that Fred Taylor is joining on Sept. 30 is called Pride of the Jaguars, as opposed to Hall of Fame, for a reason. The Jaguars reserve this honor for people who have served the franchise with distinction on and off the field, not solely by statistical accomplishments.

Entry into Pride of the Jaguars should be difficult. For players, the privilege of gaining membership has to encompass years of consistently productive performance and exemplary conduct in the community. It’s not an easy standard. As Taylor said about joining Tony Boselli as the only player in the team’s ring of honor, it’s “special.”

So with that in mind, who are other Jaguars worthy of future consideration? Not just players who might be a lock to have their name given a permanent place at EverBank Field, but Jaguars who merit being talked about by owner Shad Khan and committee members who decide on entry.

Here’s my list (alphabetical order):

Tony Brackens (1996-2003): The best defensive player in team history, he has a franchise record 55 sacks. When Brackens was at his best, nobody created more havoc for opposing offenses, though he tended to disappear at times.

Mark Brunell (1995-2003): Along with Boselli, he was the face of the franchise during its glory years. Brunell quarterbacked the Jaguars to two AFC championship games and performed tons of charity/community service. He’s as good a bet as any to be in the POJ on-deck circle.

Maurice Jones-Drew (2006-present): Taylor’s successor already has 6,854 rushing yards and 72 touchdowns in six seasons. He’s been the one skill player counted on to excite the fan base. His career could end tomorrow and still merit inclusion.

Rashean Mathis (2003-present): He has a franchise-record 30 interceptions and is the best cover corner to ever wear teal. Being from Jacksonville won’t hurt his cause.

Keenan McCardell (1996-2001): The thunder portion of “Thunder & Lightning” with sidekick Jimmy Smith, McCardell made his mark as a dependable possession receiver. He had four 1,000-yard seasons.

Brad Meester (2002-present): If it’s possible to never make the Pro Bowl and be in the POJ, then Meester might get there. Nobody has started more games (177) for the team, and his community service work is off the charts.

Smith (1995-2005): A five-time Pro Bowler, he would already be in the ring of honor were it not for some off-the-field demons. When the Jaguars are comfortable with Smith having things under control, he will be inducted.

Marcus Stroud (2001-07): He’s one of five Jaguars to make three Pro Bowls.

Some will argue that other players should be included, but only half of my list might even get in. Good players being left out is not a bad thing. Remember, it’s a special fraternity.